I keep getting "Empty CD Key Not Allowed" message when I try to connect to servers which are using PunkBuster.

I have generated a number of new keys and placed them in the correct folder as file "ekey" with no extension but it did not work. I got the same "Empty CD Key Not Allowed" kick-message.

I have also tried to use the in-game console command to register my key with PunkBuster server but they seem to no longer offer any support for the game. I received no response after waiting 2 minute for their server to confirm registration of my key.

Does anyone know how a new player like me can get a key that works? It seems like PunkBuster is trying to kill this game.